Two hundred disability rights campaigners and supporters have spoken out at an online conference ahead of World Down Syndrome Day, organised by the Jérôme Lejeune Foundation (JLF) and government representatives from every global region.

Persons with Down syndrome gathered at the event “Down Syndrome: Let’s talk more…and better!” on 17 March to bring attention to the discriminatory hurdles they face in society.

“Sunday marks World Down Syndrome Day, an important occasion to reiterate that human rights apply to all members of the human family, regardless of their mental or physical condition. Targeting and even eliminating unborn babies with Down syndrome because they are perceived as ‘different’ is nothing short of a contemporary form of eugenics. In accordance with human rights law, the international community must take action to prohibit any discrimination on the basis of disability. People with Down syndrome, whether born or unborn, have an equal right to life,” said Giorgio Mazzoli, UN Legal Officer for ADF International.

The JLF recently brought a case to Europe’s top court to fight for the rights of persons with Down Syndrome to be equally heard in society.

In 2014, the JLF participated in the production of an awareness raising video entitled “Dear Future Mom”. In the video, 18 children and adults with Down Syndrome describe their joys and challenges. They offer encouragement to women preparing for motherhood with babies with Down Syndrome. However, the French Broadcasting Council declared that the 30 second video was not a “message of general interest” and therefore could not be shown in the requested broadcasting slots on TV.